Blog topic: malware

Does Your Computer Have Malware on It?

Earlier this week, we wrote about a recent twist in so-called scareware schemes, where scammers send alarming messages to try to convince you that your computer is infected with viruses or other malware. Then, they try to sell you software to fix the problem. At best, the software is worthless or available elsewhere for free. At worst, it could be malware — software designed to give criminals access to your computer and your personal information.

FTC Combats Tech Support Scams

The Federal Trade Commission cracked down on a massive international scam that tricked tens of thousands of computer users into believing their computers were riddled with malware and then paying the scammers hundreds of dollars to “fix” the problem.

An Internet Knock-off

Thanks to some malware that’s been around since last year, but that the FBI believes is still affecting more than 60,000 computers in the U.S., some people could find out on Monday that they no longer have internet access. If that happens, you’ll need to get help from your service provider to get back online.

To Forward or Not to Forward

That is the question. In fact, it’s one of the most common questions we hear from OnGuardOnline.gov visitors.

Email etiquette is important – not only for the sake of your personal and professional relationships, but for your computer’s security, too. Here are a few tips to help:
 

Coordinating Voluntary Efforts to Fight Botnets

Over the past several years, a new threat has emerged on the Internet, increasingly putting consumers at risk. Some industry experts suggest that as many as 1 in 10 computers in the U.S. are part of what is called a botnet.

New Initiative Takes on Botnets

Industry estimates suggest that one in 10 computers in the U.S. is currently part of a botnet, a collection of computers whose security is compromised by malicious software so they can be used by attackers for criminal activity and espionage.

Mac Computers Targeted By New Malware

A series of recent malware attacks have targeted Macs, infecting hundreds of thousands of computers. U.S. CERT recommends that Mac users review the security updates issued by Apple to address these new threats.

Malware’s Not So Entertaining

A wildly successful book series like The Hunger Games becomes a widely anticipated movie series. That means millions of curious fans on the lookout for sneak peeks, actor bios, author details, and more. Criminals are counting on it.

Blog Topic: Be Smart Online

Seven Individuals Charged for Engineering Global Internet Fraud

Yesterday, United States law enforcement officials announced charges against six Estonian nationals and one Russian national for engaging in a massive and sophisticated internet scheme that infected more than four million computers with malware – including half a million computers in the U.S.

Commerce and Homeland Security Departments Request Information About Botnet Notifications

Hackers use software programs to search the internet for computers that aren’t protected by up-to-date security software. When they find unprotected computers, they try to install malware that allows them to control the computers remotely. Many thousands of these computers linked together make up a “botnet,“ a network controlled by hackers to steal people’s personal information or send spam. Millions of home computers are part of botnets.

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